I still remember the very first time I tried making Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies. I was in the middle of a chaotic week, with school lunches to pack, toddler tantrums, and dinner plans swirling in my head. I stumbled upon the idea while looking for a sweet treat that could double as a snack and dessert – something soft, comforting, and quick. The cinnamon aroma filled the kitchen long before the cookies were even out of the oven! My family’s reactions? Pure delight. My kids begged for seconds, and my husband declared them “officially a game-changer dessert.” This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies recipe quickly became a staple in our house because it marries the gooey richness of cream cheese with the nostalgic warmth of cinnamon roll cookie dough. It felt like a big cozy hug on a plate, perfect for those moments when we all needed a little comfort.
What makes these Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies so special is how they blend two favorites into one effortless treat. The cheesecake cookie recipe uses a smooth cream cheese filling tucked inside a soft cinnamon cookie dough base. I love how they come out soft cinnamon cookies with the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. They’ve saved me time and stress more times than I can count while still feeling like a special indulgence. Fellow comfort seekers, if you’ve been searching for a way to bring real family comfort without the fuss, this recipe is exactly the kind of sanity-saving comfort food every busy mom needs.
If you want a similar recipe that kids adore, check out my friend’s Cinnamon Roll Cookies from A baJillian Recipes or try some cinnamon-swirled cookies for a slightly different take. And the simple joy of the cheesecake dessert cookies version is so worth trying too. Trust me, making Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies is part of my kitchen routine now, and I’d love for you to find your own cozy chaos win with them.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s the go-to list for your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies. Trust me, this ingredient lineup is a comfort hack for busy moms because it’s straightforward and budget-friendly:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened – This is your cheesecake center and what makes these the ultimate cream cheese cinnamon cookies.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – A trusty base to build your soft cinnamon cookies.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds needed richness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens but keeps things balanced.
- 1 large egg – Helps everything come together.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Brings warmth to your cinnamon roll cookie dough.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon – The star spice of cinnamon roll cookie dough.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder – Gives your cookies a gentle lift.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Enhances all those cozy flavors.
- Optional drizzle: powdered sugar icing or caramel sauce – For extra family comfort.
No worries if you don’t have unsalted butter; I’ve used salted butter with great results for extra cozy flavor in my Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies.
You can find these simple ingredients at your regular grocery store. A budget-friendly swap for cream cheese is to pick store brands or look for sales – this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies proves delicious doesn’t mean expensive! For busy families, prepping by softening your butter and cream cheese ahead saves precious minutes.
My family gets extra comfort when I add a pinch of nutmeg or top these cheesecake dessert cookies with a drizzle of caramel. It’s a simple touch that makes dinnertime feel extra special without complicated steps.
If you want ideas for snacks akin to these creamy cookies, here’s a comforting read on Cinnamon Roll Protein Crepes that blend the good stuff with easy prep.
Let’s Make it Happen!
Ready to whip up your own batch of Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies? Let’s cook together step by step—the kind of no-fuss approach every busy kitchen needs.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. A little prep like this makes the whole process smoother.
- Mix cream cheese and sugar in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This helps your cheesecake dessert cookies have that perfect soft center.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, egg, and vanilla until light and fluffy. This is where your cinnamon roll cookie dough begins coming to life with lots of cozy flavor.
- Combine the dry ingredients—flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this to your wet mix and stir until combined. The dough should be soft and a little sticky—this is what makes the soft cinnamon cookies so tender.
- Divide your dough into two portions. Flatten one half into small disks (about a tablespoon each). These become the cookie base.
- Add the cream cheese filling by placing a small dollop on each dough disk. Then top with another small dough disk, pressing around the edges to seal in the cream cheese.
- Place your sealed cookie balls onto the baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. You’ll see the soft cinnamon cookies begin to take shape!
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are just golden. Don’t overbake; these Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies are meant to be soft and lush inside.
By the time they’re baking, your kitchen will smell amazing – perfect time to pack those school lunches or prep quick snacks for the afternoon rush.
- Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps keep the soft texture that makes these cream cheese cinnamon cookies so addicting.
- Optional: Drizzle with powdered sugar icing or caramel once cooled for a fancy touch. It’s an easy way to add extra smiles at the dinner table.
I used to struggle getting the cream cheese filling just right without it oozing everywhere. Here’s my comfort hack: chill the filled dough balls for 15 minutes before baking. It helps the cheesecake filling stay put!
Feel free to peek at more step-by-step inspiration for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies and related soft cinnamon cookies on Well Made by Kiley’s site or Simple Joy’s lovely version offering friendly tips.
How We Love to Eat This!
Our family’s favorite way to enjoy Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies? Warm and slightly gooey fresh out of the oven, paired with a tall glass of milk. The kids adore dunking them – it’s a guaranteed way to scoop up all that creamy cheesecake filling!
On busy school nights, these cheesecake dessert cookies shine because they deliver big comfort with minimal fuss. They’re also a great after-school snack that’s substantial enough to fight the post-playdate hunger.
For sides, I often serve them alongside fruit slices or simple yogurt. The fresh fruit balances the sweet richness, and the yogurt adds a smooth touch kids love.
Presentation-wise, a little powdered sugar dust or a drizzle of icing can make even the busiest weekday feel like a treat. For gatherings, I arrange them on a platter with cinnamon sticks and fresh berries for a homely vibe that friends notice and appreciate.
Leftovers? They reheat beautifully in the microwave (about 15 seconds) and stay soft—a total win when life gets hectic. Some seasons, I swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or add mini chocolate chips. These variations keep our Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies exciting all year.
Neighbors and friends who’ve tasted this recipe rave about the soft cinnamon cookie dough and rich cream cheese combo—it’s a comfort dessert that’s hard to beat. You’ll find links to other friendly families’ favorite takes like these cinnamon roll cookie dough ideas from A baJillian Recipes and comforting cinnamon swirled cookies on MommiesMore’s blog.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Is this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies filling enough for growing kids?
A: Absolutely! The creamy cheesecake filling combined with soft cinnamon cookie dough makes them both satisfying and comforting. They’re perfect for a snack or dessert that keeps little tummies happy through busy afternoons.
Q: What if my picky eater won’t try this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies?
A: I get it. Try involving them in the baking—kids love helping with mixing and filling dough balls. Sometimes just watching the magic happen in the kitchen encourages them to taste. Adding a little icing drizzle can also win over hesitant eaters!
Q: Can I meal prep this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies for busy weeks ahead?
A: Yes! Bake in advance and store in an airtight container. They last 3-4 days at room temp or 7-10 days in the fridge. You can also freeze the filled dough balls before baking and pop them straight into the oven when you need fresh comfort food fast.
Q: Can I substitute any ingredients in the cheesecake cookie recipe?
A: You can swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free blends if needed. I’ve also used light cream cheese with good results. Just ensure your cinnamon roll cookie dough stays soft for that signature comfort texture.
Q: How do I keep the cream cheese from leaking out while baking?
A: Chilling the filled cookie dough balls before baking is my go-to fix. It helps them hold their shape and keeps your cream cheese cinnamon cookies from turning into a gooey mess.
Q: Are these Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies suitable for party snacks?
A: Totally! They’re crowd-pleasers and easy to serve in batches. Plus, their look and taste always draw compliments. Pair with some fruit or simple drinks for an easy gathering menu.
Q: Can I find other comforting recipes like this?
A: Definitely! If your family loves these, they’ll go crazy for related favorites like the Cinnamon Roll Cookies from A baJillian Recipes or the Cinnamon Swirled Cookies on MommiesMore. Also, the Cinnamon Roll Protein Crepes give a breakfast twist to cinnamon love.
Final Thoughts:
This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies recipe is one of my family’s best comfort food wins because it ticks all my busy mom boxes: simple prep, familiar flavors, and unbeatable satisfaction. My Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies Comfort Hacks are:
- Chill dough balls before baking to keep creamy filling intact.
- Swap in a pinch of extra cinnamon or nutmeg for cozy seasonal vibes.
- Drizzle with powdered sugar icing or caramel for an easy fancy touch.
We’ve tried family-tested variations like adding mini chocolate chips, switching spices with pumpkin pie blend, or making bite-sized minis for lunchboxes. My youngest loves the classic version, while my husband swoons over the pumpkin spice twist.
Fellow comfort seekers, I encourage you to make this recipe your own. Add your favorite flavor combos or serve with sides your crew loves. I hope this simple Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies recipe helps turn your chaotic family meals into easy moments of joy and connectedness.
Want to peek at another take on Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies? Check out the version from Simple Joy or get inspired with Well Made by Kiley’s approach. Don’t forget to visit MommiesMore for more comforting recipes like Cinnamon Roll Cookies or check the Cinnamon Swirled Cookies for something a little different.
You’ve got this, mama! Keep those ovens warm and your hearts full with sweet, satisfying Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies.
Happy baking and comforting your favorite people!
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies
Delight in these Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Cookies that combine the warm, spicy flavors of cinnamon rolls with creamy cheesecake in a soft, chewy cookie. Perfect for a comforting dessert or sweet snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for cinnamon swirl)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for cinnamon swirl)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for cinnamon swirl)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in 2 tsp vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 tbsp cinnamon.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- For the cinnamon swirl, melt 1/4 cup butter and mix with 1/2 cup brown sugar and 2 tsp cinnamon.
- Divide cookie dough into two portions. Spread half the dough evenly on prepared baking sheets.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, followed by drizzling the cinnamon swirl mixture over the top.
- Dot small spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the layered mixtures.
- Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the layers to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
For extra indulgence, drizzle with cream cheese glaze or sprinkle chopped pecans on top before baking.